In a surprise appearance during the Rajya Sabha proceedings, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his gratitude to outgoing MP Dr. ManMohan Singh and acknowledged his leadership and contribution to the nation in the House . Modi lauded Dr. Singh for being a shining example in Parliament, hailed his determination to strengthen democracy and attend meetings even in a wheelchair. Despite this show of respect, Modi and Singh have a history of ideological differences and contradictions.
Over the years, PM Modi has often criticized Singh, especially in the run-up to the 2014 Lok Sabha elections.
He labeled Singh as “Maun (silent)” Mohan Singh and a “night watchman,” implying his lack of leadership within the Congress.
Modi’s comments persisted after the election, including comments about Singh’s alleged silence on corruption scandals and his role as Gandhi family puppet
In contrast, Dr. Manmohan Singh’s retirement from the Rajya Sabha evoked reflections on his dignified tenure as Prime Minister. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge lauded Singh’s ethical politics and economic policies that lifted millions out of poverty. Kharge highlighted Singh’s inclusive economic approach, which supported various sectors of society and laid the foundation for India’s economic growth.
Kharge lamented that the current leadership was not acknowledging Singh’s support, stressing that India’s economic prosperity today was largely due to Singh’s policies. Singh’s retirement marks the end of an era, where Kharge acknowledged his unparalleled dedication to serve the nation.
Dr. Manmohan Singh’s legacy as both an economist and a statesman is widely recognized, with his tenure as Prime Minister and earlier role as Finance Minister under P.V. Narasimha Rao recalled that he initiated important economic reforms. Despite the political differences, Singh’s impact on Indian politics and economy remains undeniable, as his legacy has been framed with both praise and criticism in the history of Indian governance.
